Joseph O’Reily is still adjusting to the lifestyle and the dangers that come with being a new vampire. He and Cassandra recently fought to the death with Cassandra’s estranged husband John Snow, and now Joseph has experienced his first ménage a trios, as only a vampire can. As if all of this was not complicated enough, he and Cassandra have been tasked with hunting down and killing a rogue vampire, Donald Rathmore.

Another of John Snow’s creations, Donald is an evil misogynistic killer in his own right. Donald has no interest in avenging his creator’s death, but killing Cassandra is at the top of his list.

While Donald continues his murderous spree, Joseph and Cassandra always seem to be one step behind him. The chase is further complicated as they encounter other vampires and learn more about the mysterious nature of the Vampire Council and the coming war between good and evil.

Joseph is only now beginning to trust Cassandra, and this trust will be shaken when he discovers she has even more secrets than he imagined. Her idea of justice and morality is at complete odds with his own. Despite all his powers and growing skill, Joseph is tested physically as a vampire and emotionally by Cassandra. This time the answers and challenges may be too much for the young vampire to handle.

My Review:

This is definitely a cute, catching tale with a grown up twist. O’Keefe’s writing is approachable and draws you right in. This story is simultaneously eloquent and fun. O’Keefe’s subject matter is also thought provoking, while staying true to the paranormal twist on vampires. I also really enjoyed the historical and Canadian context of this novel. O’Keefe works little bits in here and there, staying true to the region and its history without taking away from the unique storyline.

As a reader you get to know the characters in this novel quite well, both in the present and with allusions to past events that make them who they are today. Each individual is developed in a manner that suits their personality. The differentiation in writing style and word usage really play this to its fullest. Also, the contrast between the different vampires, namely those who assimilate to modernity and those who are stuck in the past, is quite catching. It’ adds an extra layer of depth to the story.

Although reading the first novel in this series adds a bit of context, this can easily be read as a standalone work. Also, O’Keefe definitely adopts a unique take on vampires without straying too far off centre. I’d definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys the paranormal and wants it written for adults, without the story becoming excessively erotic.

Charles O’Keefe lives in the beautiful province of Newfoundland, Canada, with his wife and two feline ‘children,’ Jude and Esther. He works as an I.T. support guy and enjoys many hobbies and activities that include writing, reading, watching fantasy/science-fiction movies and television shows, gaming, poker, walking, acting, martial arts and of course fantasizing about vampires.

He currently has two novels out, books 1 and 2 of "The Newfoundland Vampire" series.